Right when the travel and hospitality industry was starting to gather pace after almost two years into the pandemic, a new variant of the coronavirus appears and change most of the rules once again.
Following a spike in Omicron cases around the world, several countries have begun to reconsider the vaccine’s time validity and also require mandatory boosters for all visitors.
Here’s a list of nations where a booster is required to enter the territory or access local establishments such as restaurants, bars, and gyms.
European Union
On Dec. 21, the EU Commission announced a 9-month (270-day) binding acceptance period for EU Digital COVID Certificates for intra-EU travel.
A clear and standard acceptance period for vaccination certificates will ensure that travel measures remain coordinated across the bloc, said the Commission.
This means that booster doses will be required in most European countries in the coming months.
Greece
Those who cannot present an EU’s digital certificate will not be allowed into bars, restaurants, and other public places.
Domestic travel is also restricted for people who have not been vaccinated or who have not received their booster vaccine within seven months of their last dose.
France
Entry to France without a booster shot is still possible by presenting a negative PCR test.
However, a third shot is needed to enter all indoor spaces including restaurants, bars, museums, and public transport.
The Netherlands
Starting Feb. 2022, the Netherlands will only accept vaccination certificates that prove the holder has received a COVID-19 booster shot.
Switzerland
Swiss authorities consider a person fully vaccinated when they have received two doses of a vaccine within the last 365 days.
Entering the country without a booster is still possible but most of the venues are restricted to those who have been administered the full series of a COVID-19 vaccine.
Austria
Starting Dec. 6, travelers who were fully vaccinated more than 9 months ago will face a 10-day quarantine and multiple testing to enter the country if they cannot produce a booster certificate.
Croatia
People who had their second vaccine 270 days or more prior to entering Croatia must present a negative PCR test.
Those who cannot present the EU Digital COVID certificate will not have access to most indoor venues.
Israel
Israel has placed some of the most stringent restrictions worldwide. Travelers are considered fully vaccinated only if their last shot was administered within 280 prior to arrival. Otherwise, they will need to produce a boost vaccine certificate.
Kuwait
Visitors to the country must provide proof of booster shots in order to enter and exit the country. A negative PCR test is also needed.